There are crucial times in many people’s lives when they turn their minds to consider what might lie beyond. Is there a Divine Being and is there any way I can experience that presence for myself? Join us to look beyond the curtain of our physical world through the experiences of our three guests who will share their own experiences of a Divine Kind. Kanan Patel is an international speaker and spiritual educator with over 30 years of experience in Raja Yoga meditation. She is regarded as an all-rounder within the Brahma Kumaris and for her ability to make spiritual wisdom practical, relevant, and accessible. After leading the BK Centre in Gaborone, Botswana, Kanan is now based in London at Global Cooperation House. Minal Patel is a blend of artist and meditator. Being grounded in the teachings of Raja Yoga meditation since childhood has successfully equipped him to navigate life’s challenges,an emotionally demanding career and find genuine fulfilment. Professionally, he works as an actor and a singer, performing on screen and at theatres across the country. Ann Stirzaker loves being creative and caring for others. Now retired, she formerly served as a Christian missionary in West Africa and then as a special needs teacher. Ann has been studying with the Brahma Kumaris for over 30 years and is an experienced teacher of Raja Yoga meditation. She is also involved in Interfaith activities and other areas of the University's outreach work. The conversation will be facilitated by Jane Kay. Formerly a Teaching Fellow at the University of Leeds, Jane now enjoys editing and writing articles for publication on a variety of spiritual themes.

This evening’s talk will explore forgiveness, not as a favour to others but as a radical act of self-liberation. We will explore how releasing resentment frees our energy from the past, allowing us to step into a future defined by peace, presence and spiritual freedom. Speaker: Ken O’Donnell Ken is a consultant and trainer who has worked with multinational companies on five continents, such as Goodyear, General Motors and HSBC. He is a frequent guest speaker at international congresses and symposiums on a wide range of themes including advanced quality management, the human factor in organisational development and ethics in the workplace. Born in Australia, Ken has been based in Brazil since1979 and is the National Coordinator of the Brahma Kumaris for South America.

Inspirations never go in for long engagements, they demand immediate marriage to action. Brendan Francis Brown We all carry a powerful vision of a truly fulfilling life, yet turning that inner picture into outer reality remains one of life’s greatest challenges. If you're tired of watching New Year's resolutions lie in tatters, you're ready for a different approach. Join us tonight as our speaker explores the steps we can take to move from abstract dreams to concrete action. Discover the essential inner qualities needed to not only oil the process but to sustain our momentum far beyond the New Year. Speaker: Yogesh Sharda A student and teacher of Raja Yoga meditation for over 40 years, Yogesh has been a personal development trainer and workshop facilitator for over 20 years. He has presented seminars, workshops and courses for businesses, hospitals, universities, youth organisations and local community groups throughout Europe, Asia, Australasia, the USA, and Central and South America. Currently based in Istanbul, Yogesh coordinates the activities of the Brahma Kumaris in Turkey.

In a season when images of angels will be appearing everywhere, this talk is a recognition of the unsung heroes among us – the people who step up, speak out, or simply offer a hand when it’s needed most. It's not about a halo but the incredible power of small, consistent acts of kindness and generosity. Our speaker this evening will share her experience of everyday angels and explore how to recognise the 'angelic' qualities in those around us, what motivates people to step beyond the ordinary and offer help, and the quiet joy and fulfillment that comes from being an everyday angel yourself. Speaker: Chrissy Mahoney Chrissy Mahoney has a deep interest in the human spirit. This interest has inspired her to use her skills as a professional actor, and her Post Graduate studies in Conflict Resolution and Psychodrama, to creatively assist organisations in making the workplace a healthier and happier place for their people. Chrissy has been studying and teaching Raja Yoga meditation for over 40 years, and it is this practice that has brought the greatest inspiration to her work.

The comparison trap is the unseen wire that trips us up, stealing our joy and distorting our worth. Our speaker this evening will explore how comparison works, why it destroys our happiness and offer practical steps to free ourselves from the ‘more than, less than’ cycle and embrace our own unique journey. Speaker: Judy Johnson For 35 years Judy has worked as a facilitator and coaching consultant in experiential learning, leadership development and organisational effectiveness. She is known for her insight and her ability to go into the depth of a subject in a fun and interesting way. Judy is an author and co-founder of ‘Peace Halifax,’ a festival for peace in the city of Halifax, Canada. Her books include a young adult novel which she wrote with her two daughters, “The Seven Secrets of the Universe" (2014) and co-author “A-Z Spiritual Literacy" (2016), "Living as Art" (2018) and "Return to Source: The God Experience” (2020). Judy coordinates the activities of the Brahma Kumaris in Atlantic, Canada.

Every problem contains the seed of its own solution Norman Vincent Peale In a world full of external advice and endless distractions, how do we challenge the idea that solutions are “out there” and learn to trust our own inner compass? This talk will offer practical methods to quieten the noise, overcome indecision and tap into the wisdom and clarity we already possess. John McConnel is a stress management trainer and former prison governor and social worker. He has been studying and teaching Raja Yoga meditation with the Brahma Kumaris for over 30 years. John has a strong interest in the practical application of spiritual principles and insights in daily life. He is the author of Breaking Through The Darkness: how to defeat depression, anxiety and stress - a spiritual perspective.

There’s one ‘rabbit hole’ many people do not want to explore - so extensive has been the conditioning and programming of parents, teachers and culture. It’s an internal journey towards the centre of your self. Only when you make the trip can you know and enjoy the internal scenery and the riches that await. Tonight, Mike will guide you and explain what you are liable to see, feel and know. Mike George is a management tutor, spiritual coach and an author of sixteen books. In a unique blend of insight, wisdom and humour Mike brings together the three key strands of the 21st century – self-awareness, emotional/spiritual intelligence and continuous ‘unlearning.’ Mike is a highly entertaining speaker known for his ability to unite head and heart. For the last 30 years he has been guiding and facilitating the executive development of leaders in companies and communities in over 30 countries. He coaches and mentors individuals towards their own vision of inner success, and helps teams find more cohesive ways to work together and motivate themselves. His books include Being Your Self, Don’t Get MAD Get Wise, The 7 Myths About LOVE and Untangling Religion and Spirituality. You can download the presentation slides from this talk (pdf) here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Jc...

Conversation | Dance | Meditation | Candle Lighting with special performance by The Bhavan Guest Speakers: Major Munish Chauhan MBBS, MRCS, DMCC, PGDip, RAMS Major Munish Chauhan, the only Indian-born surgeon in the British Army, is an award-winning leader and researcher whose journey from humble beginnings to military service embodies resilience, remembrance, and inspiration. Major Chauhan arrived in the UK at 17, sleeping rough in his early days before beginning a journey of service and leadership. He has served in both clinical and leadership roles within Defence, enhancing operational readiness and mentoring future officers. Committed to remembrance, he completed a 1000km solo Remembrance Walk and led a team in a 3.5 million-step tribute. He is currently leading a historic British Army visit to India to strengthen ties with the Indian community and Armed Forces, promoting heritage, cooperation, and shared values across cultures. Ami is a brand and marketing expert with over 20 years of experience in the wellness industry. Alongside her professional journey, she has been a dedicated meditator for more than two decades, guiding spiritual programs that help people slow down, reconnect with themselves, and live with greater clarity and purpose. Sister Jaymini has been a student, teacher, and an experienced meditator with the Brahma Kumaris for over 40 years. She is a gifted and inspiring speaker and is at ease in any company, whether high-flying executives or small children. This is a result of her genuine care for the well-being of others. Since 1992 she has been the Director of Brahma Kumaris Publications in London. Being a communications and marketing leader, she has been able to enhance the BK profile of the BKs in the UK and broaden its scope to a wider international community. Jaymini is also the Area Coordinator for BK activities in the Midlands and has inspired many to realise and express their potential through this role. "I never give up hope in myself, God, or others. We all have a unique role to play in life! The secret is realizing it and then we can fully fulfill our potential and become truly happy and content". In a conversation facilitated by Phillipa Blackham, an award-winning radio documentary maker and pesenter. Having worked for BBC Radio for many years, she is now working for a national project '100 Women of Spirit' which explores and celebrates the role of women and spirituality. Phillipa has practised Raja Yoga meditation with the Brahma Kumaris since 1982.

Celebrating World Kindness Day True kindness is not just about being polite or avoiding conflict. It's a powerful, compassionate force that can create profound change. This talk challenges the conventional idea of "niceness" and delves into what it truly means to be kind. Our speaker will explore why authentic kindness requires courage, vulnerability, and the willingness to take a stand, even when it's uncomfortable. Speaker: Tamasin Ramsay Tamasin developed a profound respect for nature and animals in her early years whilst growing up in a rural area in Australia. A keen meditator since childhood, Tamasin formalised her practice when she came across the Brahma Kumaris in 1984 at the age of 18. Tamasin loves being out and about - she has worked on camera as an actor, on the road as a paramedic, in the field as a medical anthropologist (PhD), in parliament as an advisor, and now in the bush as a wildlife rescuer and carer. As a perpetually curious student, she enjoys teaching meditation in ways that are simple, practical, and experiential for everyone.

Exploring What Connects Us Spiritually A Contribution to National Interfaith Week An exploration of the interwoven narratives that run through diverse faith traditions, reminding us that while our beliefs, symbols and practices may differ, our longing for meaning, connection and transcendence is shared. Speaker: Philippa Blackham worked for almost 20 years as a producer and presenter for the BBC, including seven years at BBC Radio 4's 'Woman's Hour'. Since then, she has trained as an Interfaith Minister and now serves as a celebrant. She is part of a team that heads up the Media & Communication work of Brahma Kumaris, UK. She has practised Raja Yoga meditation for over 40 years.

What makes us sometimes defend our position, or opinion with force and at other times stay silent and feel like a doormat? Why do we seem unable to express our needs and feelings without upsetting someone or the fear of doing so? The key might lie in the essential understanding and capacity to be assertive. Join our speaker, Erik Larson to explore: • Why we struggle to express what we truly feel. • What it means to be assertive without being aggressive. • How to master this essential art. Speaker: Erik Larson Based in New York, Erik has been involved with the Brahma Kumaris for over 40 years. With a background in Civil Engineering and experience in property loss control for over 30 years, he blends the very practical with the very spiritual to achieve a common-sense way to look at life and to help others. Erik is a Director of the Brahma Kumaris (USA) and also BK representative to the United Nations. He is a member of the NGO Committee on Freedom of Religion or Belief and a member of the Committee of Religious NGOs. Erik is also a founding member on the Board of Directors of the Long Island Multi-Faith Forum.

Curiosity and creativity are two things that make one feel alive. They reveal our individuality. Often a child is full of questions, they have freedom of expression, they play in the moment. Where did we lose that spontaneity and are there ways to rekindle that sense of freedom and enthusiasm for life? Speaker: Pamela Baillie Pamela has studied and practised Raja Yoga meditation for over 40 years and found it invaluable whilst working in an international and multicultural setting. She retired some years ago, after having lived and worked in Switzerland, Japan and Australia. She now lives in SW Scotland in the relaxed setting of the Scottish Artists' Town of Kirkcudbright. She conducts meditation sessions for the community in the "meditation space"; which she has created in her home, a converted art studio.